Laos

The relaxed pace in Laos is such a contrast to its go-getter neighbors (China, Vietnam, and Thailand). The country has no coastline, but its lovely mountain scenery is punctuated by numerous rivers including the Mekong. I rode as many boats as buses (four each) as the rivers provide the only means of transportation to remote villages such as Muang Ngoi Neua.

I spent three days there trekking after stops in Luang Prabang (quaint former capital packed with dozens of Buddhist temples), Vang Vieng (biking and kayaking backpacker hangout), and Vientiane (possibly the slowest national capital on Earth).

Laos is the place in SE Asia to mellow out, with lots of outdoor activities, spiritual places, and colorful villages. Now I'm back in Thailand (Chiang Rai) deciding where to go next before meeting Amber in Jakarta in two weeks.